Introduction
The tapestry of modern hip-hop is woven with threads of introspection, social commentary, and undeniable lyrical prowess. Few artists embody this blend as potently as Kendrick Lamar. A Pulitzer Prize winner, a cultural icon, and a storyteller of the highest caliber, Lamar consistently pushes boundaries, inviting listeners to explore the complexities of life. While his solo work is frequently celebrated, his collaborations offer a different dimension, often revealing softer, more emotionally resonant sides. One such example of this collaboration is the critically acclaimed track, “LOVE.” featuring the soulful vocals of Zacari on the 2017 album, *DAMN.* This article will delve into the depths of “LOVE.”, meticulously examining the lyrics to uncover their underlying meanings, the interplay between the artists, and the song’s lasting impact. We’ll explore the nuances of the lyrics, dissect the poetic devices, and unpack the central themes of love, commitment, and the challenges of navigating relationships.
Background and Context
*DAMN.*, the fourth studio album from Kendrick Lamar, marked a significant point in his career. Released in April 2017, the album became a cultural phenomenon. It earned Lamar a Pulitzer Prize for Music, making him the first non-classical or jazz artist to receive this honor. The album’s thematic exploration of identity, faith, and the perils of societal pressures resonated deeply with listeners worldwide. While the album as a whole is a complex tapestry of thought-provoking tracks, “LOVE.” stands out as a more intimate and accessible piece. The album’s success demonstrated Lamar’s ability to blend complex lyrical content with broad musical appeal. This accessibility helped catapult *DAMN.* to the top of the Billboard charts and earned the album numerous accolades.
The song, “LOVE.”, produced by Teddy Walton, Sounwave, and Greg Kurstin, contrasts the darker tones of some other tracks on *DAMN.* with a more optimistic and heartfelt vibe. It’s a song that explores the complexities of a committed relationship, focusing on the unwavering support and affection between two individuals. This sentiment is reinforced by the smooth and melodic vocals of Zacari, which perfectly complement Lamar’s lyrical flow, creating a harmonious synergy that draws listeners in. It is a crucial piece within the larger narrative of the album, demonstrating the different facets of love, even amidst the chaos and struggles depicted elsewhere on the tracklist.
Verse by Verse Analysis of the Lyrics
Let’s begin our exploration by breaking down the first verse delivered by Kendrick Lamar.
Verse 1
“I wanna be with you, I wanna be with you
I wanna be with you, all the time
I wanna be with you, I wanna be with you
Don’t wanna be alone, I wanna be with you
Love, love, love, love, love
Love, love, love, love, love
I’ve been down so long, I wanna be with you
When I’m with you, I feel alive”
The verse opens with a simple yet powerful declaration of desire: “I wanna be with you, all the time.” This repeated phrase immediately establishes the song’s core theme of devotion and longing for companionship. The repetition itself is a rhetorical device, emphasizing the urgency and intensity of Lamar’s emotions. The simplicity of these lines should not be mistaken for a lack of depth. This directness allows the listener to immediately connect with the feelings being expressed. The repetition also builds anticipation, making Zacari’s entrance later in the song all the more significant. The assertion of wanting to be with this person reinforces the idea of a safe haven and comfort in a relationship. The lines “I’ve been down so long, I wanna be with you” suggest that the person he is addressing provides comfort and a sense of grounding. The closing line, “When I’m with you, I feel alive,” conveys the transformative effect of the relationship, implying that it breathes life into him.
Chorus
“I choose you, I choose you
I choose you, I choose you, ooh
I’m a fool for you
I choose you, I choose you
I choose you, I choose you, yeah
I’m a fool for you”
The chorus intensifies the expression of love, incorporating repetition and a declaration of devotion. The repeated phrase “I choose you” highlights the conscious decision to prioritize this relationship. It’s a statement of commitment, indicating that the love isn’t just a passive feeling; it’s an active choice. The use of the word “choose” is significant, as it illustrates the deliberate investment of energy and emotion in a partnership. The repeated “ooh” and “yeah” further add a touch of vulnerability, suggesting the joy and perhaps the anxiety that comes with being in love. The line “I’m a fool for you” indicates the depth of emotion – a willingness to be vulnerable and possibly to make mistakes for the sake of love.
Verse 2
“You the best I ever had, best I ever had
Best I ever had, best I ever had
You keep me up at night, I don’t know why
I can’t explain, it’s all so right
My life be a movie, you the main character
This is not a dream, you a star”
In verse two, Kendrick shifts focus to express the specific qualities that draw him to his partner. He describes them as “the best I ever had”. The repetition of “best I ever had” reinforces the uniqueness of the relationship and the impact the other person has on his life. The lines “You keep me up at night, I don’t know why / I can’t explain, it’s all so right” are a great example of the mystery that often comes with love. The inability to fully articulate the reasons for the love adds a layer of complexity. The lines “My life be a movie, you the main character / This is not a dream, you a star” portray his partner as the center of his world. His life is an unfolding narrative in which this person plays a crucial role.
Chorus
“I choose you, I choose you
I choose you, I choose you, ooh
I’m a fool for you
I choose you, I choose you
I choose you, I choose you, yeah
I’m a fool for you”
The second chorus mirrors the first, re-emphasizing the commitment and the depth of emotion.
Zacari’s Vocal Interlude
“I get high when I’m with you
I get high when I’m with you
I get high when I’m with you
You and I, you and I, you and I, ooh
High, high, high, high”
Zacari’s interlude introduces a different facet of the song, adding another layer of texture and emotion. His soaring vocals serve to amplify the feelings of joy and elation described by Kendrick. Zacari’s use of the word “high” transcends a literal meaning, hinting at the intoxicating feeling that comes with being deeply in love. The repetitive phrase “you and I” encapsulates the essence of the song: the bond between two individuals. It highlights the sense of togetherness and the importance of the relationship. His section offers a brief, but essential, contrast in tone and instrumentation that amplifies the overall message of the song.
Verse 3
“It’s a cold world, but it feels so right
When I’m with you, it feel so right
I don’t care ’bout the drama, you the sun
You the light, you the moon, you the star
All the things that make me wanna ride
You and I, you and I, you and I
You and I”
In verse three, Lamar acknowledges the challenges that exist in the outside world. The lines “It’s a cold world, but it feels so right” suggest that the relationship provides warmth and solace amidst the harsh realities of life. The partner serves as a source of comfort and resilience. The metaphorical references to “the sun”, “the light”, “the moon”, and “the star” showcase the idea of the partner as an essential source of beauty and warmth. The repeated emphasis on “You and I” further solidifies the sense of unity and the comfort that the relationship brings. The final line, “You and I,” reaffirms the focus on the couple as a unit.
Chorus
“I choose you, I choose you
I choose you, I choose you, ooh
I’m a fool for you
I choose you, I choose you
I choose you, I choose you, yeah
I’m a fool for you”
The final chorus reinforces the declaration of devotion one last time, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Themes and Messages
Several key themes emerge from the analysis of “LOVE.”. Primarily, the song celebrates the power of unwavering affection and committed partnership. It presents a vision of love that is resilient, unwavering, and capable of providing comfort in a turbulent world. The song directly confronts the notion that love is a risk or a vulnerability; instead, it embraces it as a source of strength and joy. Additionally, the lyrics underscore the importance of choice in a relationship. The constant repetition of “I choose you” implies a deliberate and ongoing commitment. It acknowledges that love is not passive; it’s an active endeavor that requires consistent effort and dedication. It also explores the idea of mutual admiration. Lamar expresses his appreciation for his partner’s qualities, portraying them as a central figure in his life.
Moreover, the song touches on the idea of escapism. The relationship provides a haven from the hardships of the outside world. The partner serves as a source of light and comfort, creating an internal world where the harsh realities of the external world are diminished. Overall, the song provides a complex and thoughtful exploration of love’s many facets.
Musicality and Style
The musical arrangement of “LOVE.” is a significant factor in its success. The beat, created by Teddy Walton, Sounwave, and Greg Kurstin, incorporates a blend of mellow piano chords and smooth basslines, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. The song’s melodic structure perfectly complements the lyrical content. The simplicity of the music contrasts with the complexity of the themes, creating a harmonious interplay that draws the listener in. The use of repetition, both in the lyrics and the music, adds to the song’s emotional impact.
Kendrick Lamar’s lyrical flow is distinctive. The beat allows him to deliver the lyrics in a straightforward, accessible manner. His delivery conveys both vulnerability and conviction. Zacari’s vocals are a crucial addition. His smooth, soaring voice injects a layer of emotion and lifts the energy, complementing Lamar’s flow. The collaboration between Lamar and Zacari creates a dynamic and unified sonic experience.
Impact and Legacy
“LOVE.” has become one of Kendrick Lamar’s most popular and well-loved songs. Its message of love and commitment resonated strongly with fans, establishing its position on the charts. The song’s success highlights Lamar’s versatility and ability to craft commercially successful tracks without sacrificing his lyrical integrity. The song exemplifies his ability to connect with listeners across different demographics. The song’s popularity continues to the present day.
The song’s legacy lies in its celebration of love, the importance of choice, and the need for companionship. It demonstrates that artists like Kendrick Lamar are able to make a positive impact through music. “LOVE.” demonstrates that even the most complex of artists can embrace the simpler emotions and still provide powerful messages. **Kendrick Lamar ft Zacari lyrics** is the perfect example of how the artist can take simple concepts and elevate them to a poetic level. Zacari’s contribution provides a captivating soundscape to express the depth of emotion that the lyricism delivers. The enduring popularity of “LOVE.” solidifies its position as a modern hip-hop classic. It reminds us that even in a world often defined by its complexities, the power of love can serve as a source of hope, resilience, and unwavering connection. It stands as a landmark in Kendrick Lamar’s career, a reminder of his artistic brilliance, and a message of love that continues to resonate with audiences.
